"I should be very sorry to have you deprive yourself of an agreeable evening because of a simple indisposition, entirely unattended by any danger.—I have Miretta, who will stay with me, who will not leave me."
"Your faithful maid. That girl is very much attached to you, is she not?"
"I think so; I have every reason to praise her zeal and her fidelity."
"And I think that she should congratulate herself on being in your service. She must be very happy here; and yet, I have noticed of late that she seems to be profoundly sad and depressed. A smile never appears on her lips. Have not you noticed it, madame?"
"Pardon me, monsieur; but as I know the cause of her melancholy, I overlook it."
"Ah! you know the cause of it?"
"Indeed, it is not difficult to guess: an unfortunate love affair; the man she loves has disappeared!"
"Very good; I see that you know your maid's secrets."
"The poor girl is alone in this country, without kindred or friends. Why should I not be interested in her?"
"You should, of course; and then, women are always compassionate for troubles of the heart.—Well, madame, I go, with regret; take care of your health."